09 Apr Do You Need to Wash New Towels Before Using Them? Here’s Why You Should

Nothing beats using a fresh, fluffy towel for the first time. But before you enjoy that new towel, there’s one crucial question to answer: Do you need to wash new towels before using them? The answer is a definite yes—and for good reason. While new towels may look clean and feel soft, they often contain hidden chemicals, manufacturing residues, and even bacteria from packaging and handling. In this article, we’ll explain exactly why washing new towels before using them is important, and how doing so can make a big difference in both hygiene and towel performance.

Why You Should Always Wash New Towels Before Using Them

Although new towels look clean and feel soft, they often come coated with chemicals used during manufacturing. These coatings make the towels appear more appealing on store shelves, but they also reduce absorbency. Washing the towels first removes these substances and lets the fibres do their job properly—soaking up water efficiently.

Moreover, during the production and packaging process, towels pass through various hands and machines. Even though they seem untouched, they may carry residues, dust, or even factory lint. A thorough wash eliminates all of this, giving you peace of mind and a genuinely fresh start.

Improve Absorbency and Hygiene

The first wash also helps improve the feel and performance of your towels. Without that wash, they won’t absorb water as well as they should. You might step out of the shower expecting that plush towel to dry you quickly, only to find it simply pushes the water around.

On top of that, washing them before use helps prevent skin irritation. If you have sensitive skin, those chemical coatings could trigger a reaction. A single wash with mild detergent and warm water can make a huge difference.

Tips to Wash New Towels Before Using Them

To get the best results from your brand-new towels, follow these simple yet effective tips. Not only will these steps improve absorbency, but they’ll also ensure your towels stay soft, fresh, and long-lasting.

1. Wash before the first use: Always wash new towels before using them to remove factory coatings, dust, and any lingering residues. A single wash can significantly improve their feel and function.
2. Use warm water: Warm water helps break down the chemical finishes applied during manufacturing. It also activates the fibres, allowing them to absorb moisture more effectively.
3. Add white vinegar: Pour a cup of white vinegar into the first wash cycle. This natural solution strips away residue eliminates odours, and softens the fabric without damaging it.
4. Skip the fabric softener: Fabric softeners may make towels feel nice, but they coat the fibres with a film that blocks absorbency. Stick to a mild detergent and avoid anything that leaves residue.
5. Wash towels separately: New towels tend to shed lint. To prevent it from sticking to your clothes, wash them in their own load. This also allows them more space to rinse thoroughly.
6. Shake and tumble dry: After washing, give the towels a good shake before drying. Then tumble dry them on low to medium heat to keep them soft and fluffy.

By following these tips, you’ll get the most out of your towels from day one. Always remember: it’s essential to wash new towels before using them—not just for cleanliness, but also to enjoy their full potential.

Read More:

The Power of Vinegar in Laundry: Your Ultimate Guide to Laundry Success

What Happens If You Don’t Wash New Towels Before Using?

Skipping the initial wash might not seem like a big deal, but it can lead to a few unwanted surprises:

• Reduced absorbency: Your towels won’t soak up water as they should.

• Skin irritation: Chemical coatings may cause redness or itching, especially on sensitive skin.

• Unpleasant odours: Factory residues can carry a musty smell that only washing can eliminate.

• Lint issues: New towels shed more lint. If you don’t wash them separately, that lint can transfer to your clothes.

Avoid all of this by making a quick wash your priority.

Read More:

The Science Behind Odour: Why Clothes Smell and How to Remove Clothes Odour

How Many Times Should You Wash New Towels Before Using?

In most cases, you only need to wash new towels before using them once. A single wash with warm water and a mild detergent is usually enough to remove factory residues, improve absorbency, and freshen up the fabric.

However, not all towels are made the same. If your new towels feel overly slippery, waxy, or stiff after the first wash, give them a second round—this time using half a cup of white vinegar instead of fabric softener. This method helps break down any remaining chemicals and boosts the towel’s ability to soak up water.

Luxury or high-thread-count towels may benefit from two washes before use, especially if you want that hotel-quality absorbency and softness right away. But in general, washing new towels before using them once should be more than enough to get them ready for everyday use.

How Can NeatEx Laundrette & Dry Cleaning Help You?

At NeatEx Laundrette & Dry Cleaning, we understand how important it is to care for your textiles properly—especially new items like towels. If you’re unsure how to prepare your new towels or simply don’t have the time, let us handle it for you.

We offer:

• Expert towel-washing services using skin-safe detergents and residue-removing techniques

• Fabric-safe drying methods to maintain softness and fluffiness without damage

• Eco-friendly options, including vinegar rinses and fragrance-free cleaning for sensitive skin

• Same-day and next-day service, so your fresh towels are ready when you need them

Whether it’s a brand-new set or a whole household laundry load, we treat every item with care and precision. Drop by our West Hampstead location or book online—it’s the easiest way to ensure your towels are washed right the first time.

Let NeatEx take the hassle out of laundry so you can enjoy fresh, absorbent towels from day one.